We can’t wait to open the doors at CKUA for a dance party on Saturday, April 27! We checked in with host Amy van Keeken to ask about her plans and hopes for this special night in Edmonton’s CKUA performance space.
How did the idea for the Spring Fundraiser Live Vinyl Dance Party develop?
CKUA’s intrepid Content Director, Arianne Smith-Piquette, came up with the idea and approached me to see if I would be interested in hosting. I immediately said YES, of course. I can’t think of anything more fun than an all vinyl dance party that is also a live to air radio show! During fundraiser! Am I dreaming?? Arianne is a genius.
How will you choose the music? What are some of the records that will be on the turntable?
Along with being a radio DJ I also do live DJ gigs. Yes, that is me carting 100 vinyl records to a bar to spin for 5 hours straight, with joy. You’ll hear a mix of genres, styles and decades, all of it designed to get you grooving on the dance floor. Motown, soul, R&B, Turkish Psych, Rock N Roll, Outlaw Country and more. I’m also taking requests leading up to the event, and a listener has already emailed a request for George Benson’s “Give Me the Night” and I just so happen to have that on vinyl so I’ll be spinning that for sure!
We’ve heard that some guests will pop in. Can you give us any hints about who might show up?
CKUA’s newest show, River Valley Sessions, is hosted by Aladean Kheroufi, and he is one of my favourite DJs in Edmonton. Dean will be joining me and I can’t wait to see what he is going to spin. 1960s 45s? Retro deep cut Cuban jams? Irma Thomas? Sweet 80s jams I remember from my childhood? Join us to find out!
What will you wear? What should we all wear?
Comfortable dancing clothes for sure! Whatever makes you feel good 🤩
What advice would you give people who are on the fence, wondering if they should come to the Live Vinyl Dance Party?
No worries if you are not a dancer; this is going to be a fun and inclusive party for dancers and non-dancers alike. Lots of great music, all on vinyl, to listen to and a beautiful environment to hang out in, celebrating CKUA and community. More details will be released in the coming week or so, including more special guests!
Amy picked this song to get your toes tapping. Now get your tickets for the party!
